Needle found near park entrance likely dropped by suspect

A hypodermic needle found near the main entrance to Greencastle's Robe-Ann Park was likely dropped by a suspect arrested this weekend, authorities believe.

"There's really no way of knowing for sure," Greencastle Assistant Police Chief Brian Hopkins told the Banner Graphic, indicating the discovery of the syringe was one of two events at the city park that warranted investigation earlier this week.

The needle was reportedly discovered by a park visitor near the DAR cabins at the front entrance about 4 p.m. Sunday. Capt. Chris Jones conducted the initial investigation and disposed of the syringe.

Under further investigation, Hopkins noted, it was learned that earlier that day a suspect had been arrested on a warrant near that location and could possibly have tossed the syringe aside at that point.

"We suspect he may have dropped it," Hopkins surmised.

Also that day, someone started a fire in the park restroom, and during an investigation of that incident the cap to a syringe was discovered.

At this point, police have no way of really knowing if the needle was related to either incident or whether the syringe might have been tossed from a passing vehicle.

Regardless, all City Police vehicles now contain a needle disposal box. If anyone finds a needle at the park or anywhere else, they are advised to leave it alone and call 911 for an officer to be sent to properly dispose of it.